Demystifying the Vodka and Seltzer
For many, a vodka and seltzer is a go-to choice for a light, refreshing drink. The combination is simple: vodka and bubbly water served over ice. However, the precise terminology can be confusing, especially when faced with a bartender or a shelf full of canned options. The most common and widely accepted name for this drink is the vodka soda. While this might seem to contradict the name, many people use the terms seltzer water, club soda, and sparkling water interchangeably, and "vodka soda" has become the default shorthand for vodka with any unflavored bubbly water mixer.
Vodka Soda vs. Vodka Seltzer
Though often used synonymously, there is a technical difference between seltzer and soda water. Knowing this difference can help you be more precise in your order, especially if you have a sensitive palate.
- Seltzer Water: This is simply water that has been artificially carbonated with carbon dioxide. It is plain and contains no added minerals. A true vodka and seltzer is made with seltzer water, resulting in a very clean, neutral flavor that highlights the vodka.
- Club Soda: Like seltzer, club soda is carbonated water, but it also contains added minerals such as sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate. These minerals can give it a slightly salty or mineral-heavy taste. A vodka and club soda is technically a vodka soda, but the flavor profile is slightly different than with plain seltzer.
In most casual settings, a bartender will understand what you mean when you order a "vodka soda," regardless of which type of carbonated water they use. However, if you prefer the purest, most neutral taste, you can specifically request a "vodka with seltzer water."
The Highball Family
The vodka and seltzer is a classic example of a highball cocktail. A highball is defined as a cocktail made with a base spirit and a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. The highball family includes other simple two-ingredient drinks like the Gin and Tonic and the Whiskey and Soda. This classification is useful when exploring variations, as many spirits can be paired with soda or seltzer water to create a highball.
Ordering and Making Your Drink
Ordering a vodka and seltzer at a bar is straightforward, following standard drink-ordering etiquette. Here is a basic recipe to make one yourself:
Classic Vodka Soda with Lime
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 4-6 oz seltzer water (or club soda)
- 1 lime wedge
- Instructions:
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the vodka.
- Top with seltzer water.
- Squeeze the lime wedge over the top and drop it in.
- Stir lightly to combine.
For the best results, use a quality vodka, and ensure both the vodka and the seltzer are well-chilled before mixing.
How to Elevate Your Vodka Seltzer
Just because the classic recipe is simple doesn't mean you can't get creative. Here are some popular variations:
- The Vodka Spritzer: Add a splash of fresh fruit juice, like cranberry, grapefruit, or pomegranate, for a fruity twist. Some also add herbs like mint or rosemary.
- The Vodka Press: Use a mix of seltzer water and lemon-lime soda for a slightly sweeter, zestier drink.
- Flavored Vodka: Swap out plain vodka for a flavored variety, such as lemon, berry, or grapefruit, to instantly infuse your drink with flavor.
Navigating the Hard Seltzer Trend
The explosive popularity of hard seltzers has added another layer of confusion. While the flavor profile of a canned hard seltzer might seem identical to a homemade vodka seltzer, the alcohol source is fundamentally different.
- Hard Seltzers (e.g., White Claw, Truly): These are typically made from a fermented base of cane sugar or malted barley, not distilled spirits. The result is a light, flavored, and carbonated drink, but without any vodka. This is an important distinction for those who prefer the flavor and feel of a true vodka cocktail.
- Canned Vodka Sodas: Some brands, such as High Noon, produce ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails using real vodka and sparkling water. These are a convenient, true vodka seltzer alternative for those who don't want to mix their own.
Comparison Table: Seltzer, Soda, and Hard Seltzer
| Feature | Seltzer Water | Club Soda | Hard Seltzer (Canned) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ingredients | Water, carbonation | Water, carbonation, added minerals | Fermented cane sugar/malt, flavorings, carbonation |
| Flavor | Purely neutral and clean | Slightly mineral or salty | Fruity, often from natural or artificial flavors |
| Alcohol Base | N/A (non-alcoholic mixer) | N/A (non-alcoholic mixer) | Fermented alcohol base, not distilled vodka |
| Use in Cocktails | Ideal for a clean, crisp vodka seltzer | Best for a classic vodka soda with a mineral edge | Can be used as a mixer but already contains alcohol |
Conclusion
So, what is a vodka and seltzer called? The most common answer is a vodka soda, although a more specific term might be a vodka seltzer to distinguish it from a vodka and club soda. It's a simple, versatile highball cocktail that can be customized with fresh garnishes, fruit juices, or flavored vodkas. Whether you're ordering at a bar or crafting one at home, now you know the proper terminology to ensure you get exactly the drink you're craving. For more cocktail recipes and variations, see the resources at Liquor.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a vodka soda and a vodka seltzer the same thing? A: They are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. A vodka soda technically uses club soda (with added minerals), while a vodka seltzer uses plain seltzer water. The taste difference is very subtle for most people.
Q: How do I order a vodka and seltzer at a bar? A: The most straightforward way is to say, "I'll have a vodka soda with a lime, please." If you prefer plain seltzer water over club soda, you can specify, "vodka with seltzer, and a lime."
Q: What is a vodka spritzer? A: A vodka spritzer is a vodka-based drink that includes sparkling water (or seltzer) and a significant amount of fruit juice or other flavorings, making it sweeter and more complex than a standard vodka soda.
Q: What's the difference between seltzer and club soda? A: Seltzer water is plain carbonated water, while club soda has added minerals that can give it a slightly mineral or salty taste. Both can be used to make a vodka and bubbly water drink.
Q: Are canned hard seltzers the same as vodka seltzers? A: No. Most hard seltzers, like White Claw and Truly, get their alcohol from fermented sugar or malt and contain no vodka. True vodka seltzers use a distilled vodka base and are available from brands like High Noon or can be made at home.
Q: Can I use flavored vodka for this drink? A: Yes, using flavored vodka is an easy way to add an extra layer of flavor to your drink. Citrus, berry, and other fruit-flavored vodkas pair especially well with seltzer water.
Q: What garnish is best for a vodka seltzer? A: A lime wedge is the classic and most popular garnish for a vodka seltzer. Lemon wedges are also a great choice. For spritzers, you can add fresh fruit slices or sprigs of herbs like mint or rosemary.
Q: What's another name for this cocktail? A: A vodka and seltzer is a type of highball, which is a cocktail with a large proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. You can also simply call it a vodka highball to be accurate.
